Historical Uses of Semi-Precious Stones

Agate is worn for protection, to insure good harvest or fertility; purported to balance the physical, mental and emotional bodies with the etheric body; was used in breast-plates of high priests, and placed in water to drink to dispel illness.

Amber is a pine resin that is fossilized. Transparent amber is 120-180 million years old. Copal or opaque amber is 60 million years old. Organic inclusions improve value. In the Native American and Eastern Indian cultures it is a sacred stone used in fire ceremonies of ancient tribal healers. It was burned to purify the environment and worn to purify body, mind and spirit.

Aquamarine is a sailor's talisman; and increases hopefulness, optimism, courage and inspiration.

Amethyst was used since historic times to promote and encourage sobriety; is good for meditating with as it transmutes lower energies to higher vibrations.Used to promote sleep and pleasant dreams, and makes one gentle and amiable. Helps anxiety, nervous headache or digestive disorder.

Amazonitewas discovered in Africa and Russia. It was valued for its turquoise color and believed to bring luck in achieving ones dreams, to balance the emotions and provide physical stamina and confidence. To all ancient peoples, the color of sky blue was magical.

Carnelianreleases back pain and traumas, encourages healing, and restores energy flow. It is the classical Roman and Greek amulet for success.

Chalcedonyencourages peace, calm and a sense of quiet detachment. It is said to reduce pain, irritation or inflammation.

Coralis the tiny skeletons of invertebrate sea animals. It was known to stop bleeding and safeguard health.

Fluorite was considered the "genius stone" as it was purported to promote mental clarity, increase concentration and decision-making. It promotes inner peace, spiritual awakening, and absorbs and neutralizes negative energy.

Garnetinsures the wearer of love, faithfulness and safety from wounds. It is considered energizing.

Hematite(iron ore) promotes strength and bravery.

Ivoryand bonewere used throughout ancient civilizations carved in various symbols to empower and protect. A stone age fertility goddess carved in ivory is one of the world's earliest known works of art.

Jadeand Jadeite were thought to have mystical properties, provide protection and blessings. In the Orient it is worn as an amulet for wealth, luck and prestige.

Lapis lazulimining began in Babylon 6,000 years ago and was considered a royal stone that opened up the higher energy centers of the body and connected one with soul energy and purpose. It was thought to ease eye troubles, asthma, and migraines while inducing sleep, increasing confidence and relieving anxiety. It also contains streaks of pyrite which helps balance and integrate higher energies.

Malachitehelps release of old memories and patterns, and attachments to allow forward growth.

Turquoisebrings luck, protects against poison, eye disease, and falling; promotes balance and energy. The earliest evidence of turquoise mining dates to 6000 years ago in the Middle East. To Aztecs, it was the stone of the Gods, used extensively in worship. In medieval times it was deemed a powerful talisman.